Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Public Field Report

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 17, 2020
Submitted:
December 18, 2020
Zone or Region:
Sawtooth and Western Smoky Mtns
Activity:
Snowmobiling/Snowbiking
Location:
Stanley creek/Kelly creek

Observed Avalanches

Did you observe any avalanches? 
Yes
Avalanche Type:
Soft Slab
Size:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a person
Elevation:
6500
Aspect:
N
Comments:
Widespread shooting cracks and collapsing throughout stanley creek/kelly creek areas.

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
Yes, Widespread
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
Yes, Widespread

Observations

Widespread cracks and collapsing experienced. New approx 4-6" storm snow failing on buried facets on top of freeze thaw crust. Predominantly northern aspects, but cracks and collapsing present on all aspects. Some small remote slides cause by groomer and sledders.

Media

Public Field Report: Stanley creek/Kelly creek
Public Field Report: Stanley creek/Kelly creek